Ella Rock

Ella Rock Reviews

One of the scenic hikes you can do out of Ella is the hike up Ella Rock. To get there you’ll have to walk for a while along the train track - so you got to look out for the trains. Fortunately trains in Sri Lanka drives at a speed which is sometimes below and sometimes slightly above walking speed - so you shouldn’t get caught in a situation where you don’t have the time to get away from the tracks.

The Lonely Planet claims you should start your hike from the station - but unless you actually stay in one of the few hotels very close to the station you would be better off taking the small road leading uphill towards the Hill Top Guest House - this small road will eventually link up to the train line and you will have saved half a mile - of not very interesting - detour. When you walk you go along the line and I wouldn’t do it with decent footwear - though the locals don’t mind walking here with bare feet’s.

After walking along the train tracks for a while you will get to a small rail bridge - which is the only place along the line where you really need to watch out for the trains - since you need to make it all the way over the bridge with no passing trains - this shouldn’t be a problem. Then just after you pass the bridge you should start walking to your left and make it across some small fields and then head up the hill.

The trail up the hill isn’t marked - so it might be a bit difficult to find. Many people hire a local as a guide - which is probable a good idea if you don’t like getting a bit lost on the way up. Though even without a guide you should have no problem finding your way - the direction is clear it’s just up up and up until you get to the top of the rock.

From the top of Ella Rock you will be rewarded with splendid views over the hill country - if the weather is clear. IF you go in the rainy season - like I did - go as early in the day as possible. If you go leave after 8 in the morning you will most likely be caught in the rain on your way back from the top. Since it often starts to rain around noon and it’s and the hike will take close to 4 hours return.

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